Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation (PIH) is a possible side effect of electrolysis treatment. PIH is not permanent and can be avoided with appropriate aftercare. Electrolysis causes mild trauma so your skin needs time to heal. You are the best judge of how long your skin needs to heal based on how you’ve healed from minor scrapes or pimples in the past.
Treatments For Post Inflammatory Hyperpigmentation
You can treat hyperpigmentation with topical ointments such as retin-A (tretinoin), or any product with AHAs, glycolic acid or another ingredient with an exfoliating effect. Skin lightening creams often contain these ingredients. Wait until your electrolysis treatment is in the touch up phase to start these treatments.
Giving your skin time to heal is sometimes the best treatment of all. Sun exposure contributes to the development and/or worsening of PIH in some skin types. Covering exposed skin with a hat or clothing is the best protection. Apply sunblock liberally and reapply often.
The image above shows a fairly typical example of PIH following electrolysis. The red dots are treated follicles. Post inflammatory hyperpigmentation on black or brown skin appears in the same pattern except the dots are brown, rather than pink or red. Remember hyperpigmentation can be avoided with stringent aftercare. I have some clients who keep their aftercare going between appointments because they want their skin in tip top shape all the time. My aftercare recommendations are the same for the face and body.
In conclusion, looking after your skin and staying out of the sun prior to your electrolysis treatment is a good idea so you go into your appointment with healthy skin. Come to your appointment prepared with your hypoclorous acid spray in your bag so you can spray it as soon as we finish. Appropriate aftercare definitely limits your risk of post inflammatory hyperpigmentation following electrolysis.